Walt Whitman described Henry Wadsworth Longfellow as the “universal poet of the young” (Kunitz 10). He is the “poet of sympathetic gestures” whose poetry was a “universal pastime and delight” (Kinsella 256). During the early 1800s, the Romanticism literary movement became popular in literature. It emphasized passion over reason, imagination over logic, human feelings, and individual freedom. Economic and social reforms were emphasized, and writers, such as Longfellow, based their writings on the Middle Ages, folklore and legends, nature, and common people (Lipking 18/19). With the aspirational vibes and beliefs of the Romantic period, along with his grand childhood and calm nature, Longfellow became one of the most sought-after writers of all time (Kinsella 256). Unlike writers like Edgar Allen Poe, Longfellow's poems were “overly optimistic and sentimental” (Kinsella 256). He stood out among all other writers of his time. While most authors wrote dark, gothic works and stories, Longfellow's were happy, positive, and encouraging thanks to his wonderful childhood. He was inspired by his hometown of Portland, by the sea, by poets like Sir Walter Scott and Samuel Rogers, literature and music were all inspirations for him (Arvin 8/9). These parts of his childhood along with the new and exciting ideas of Romanticism are what shaped Longfellow's writing style. This is what attracted his audience because his poems were relatable and were written from the heart. Even though Longfellow went through hard times with the loss of two wives and suffered from dizziness and peritonitis, he never allowed these complications to affect his writing or his composure (Kunitz 5). His control over the mind and body helped create some of the most beloved characters... middle of paper... Kunitz, Stanley. "Long-time companion, Henry Wadsworth." Biography reference bank. The H.W. Wilson Company, 1938. Web. 07 May 2014. .Lipking, Lawrence. "Romance." Advanced World Book. World Book, 2014. Web. May 14, 2014Peck, David R. "So, Let's Stand Up and Do It." Literary reference center. EBSCO Industries, Inc., 2003. Web. 08 May 2014. .Rabe, Roberto. "Biography of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow." Sweet search. Dulcinea Media, Inc.Web. 07 May 2014. .